Learning Computing Skills

Sometimes short courses in computing, languages, business, bookkeeping and of course, learning to drive can be of immense help in making you more employable.

European Computer Driving Licence

Many jobs require "basic IT competence", but what does this mean? Maybe you feel you use a PC efficiently in your daily work, but how do you prove this?

The ECDL (European Computer Driving Licence) is an internationally highly respected certificate that verifies your computer knowledge and practical computing skills. It is a qualification that has been designed to meet the needs of both employers and employees. All ECDL modules are self-study - you have a manual and study whenever is convenient and there are also interactive on-line learning modules available.

The ECDL syllabus covers the key concepts of computers, standard business applications, and uses in the workplace and society in general. It is divided into seven modules:

Basic concepts of information technology

Using the computer and managing files (Windows and file management)

Word processing (Microsoft Word)

Spreadsheets (Microsoft Excel)

Database (Microsoft Access)

Presentation (Microsoft PowerPoint)

Information and communication (email and internet)

The ECDL is open to all University of Kent registered students. The current registration fee is £120. This includes the purchase of your logbook, a training handbook and test fees. See www.kent.ac.uk/student/skills/ecdl/index.html for details of how to register

Activ is a new online IT learning solution for University of Kent staff and students accessed from any PC connected to the internet. It provides learning modules on Vista, XP, Office 2003 or Office 2007. Topics include: using Windows, managing files, word processing, spreadsheets, databases, presentations and using the internet and email. Modules are fully interactive and cover the ECDL syllabuswww.kent.ac.uk/itservices/stafftraining/online

If you are no longer at the University you can find your nearest UK ECDL training Centre at the British Computer Society Website www.bcs.org/server.php?show=nav.5829 - just type in your postcode. Many colleges will offer it at low prices if you are unwaged. For other countries go to www.ecdl.com

HR Manager to job candidate:

"I see you've had no computer training. Although that qualifies you for senior management, it means you're under-qualified for our entry level positions."

Basic web page design can also help as much publishing is now web-based. You can learn simple web design using Notepad (a free text editor which is part of MS Windows: Start/Programs/Accessories/Notepad should get you to it). There are many tutorials on-line: for example www.davesite.com/webstation/html. You can also download a 30 day free trial of Dreamweaver (the web design package used by many professionals) from www.adobe.com/downloads/?PID=2294914 Most libraries will have "web design for beginners" type books you can borrow.

Most university or public libraries will have a wide range of computing books you can borrow to teach you these programs. For example you can search and reserve books from Kent Libraries at http://libcat.kent.gov.uk or of course, you can buy your own copy via Amazon.